Where to go for your driver license in Stephenville
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License Division office in Stephenville is located at 1604 W. South Loop, Stephenville, TX 76401. This is the physical location where you renew, replace, or obtain a Texas driver license. You can visit in person during their posted business hours, which are typically Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours may vary by season or staffing.
Before you go, call ahead at the Stephenville DPS office to confirm current hours and any temporary closures. The main DPS customer service line can direct you to the Stephenville location, or you can search for "DPS Driver License Office Stephenville TX" online to find the most current phone number and hours. This one call can save you a trip if the office is closed for training or maintenance.
The Stephenville office serves Erath County and surrounding areas. If you live outside Erath County, you may have a closer DPS office in your own county, though you can visit any Texas DPS office to conduct most driver license business.
Key Takeaways
- The Stephenville DPS Driver License office is at 1604 W. South Loop and operates Monday through Friday during standard business hours.
- You will need to bring specific documents depending on whether you are renewing, replacing, or obtaining a license for the first time.
- Call ahead to confirm hours before you visit, since closures and schedule changes happen without notice.
- You can renew your license online or by mail if you meet certain conditions, which may be faster than visiting in person.
What documents to bring to the Stephenville office
The documents you need depend on what you are doing. For a renewal, bring your current driver license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you may need to take the written test again, so bring study materials or plan extra time.
For a replacement (if your license was lost, stolen, or damaged), bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. A replacement is faster than a renewal because you do not retake the test.
For a new license (if you have never had one), bring proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Texas residency. You will also take the written test and vision test at the office. The Stephenville office can tell you the exact list when you call, since requirements can shift.
Renewing your license without visiting the office
Texas allows some drivers to renew online or by mail without going to the Stephenville office. You can renew online if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and you have not had certain violations. The online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than an in-person renewal.
Mail renewal is also an option for some drivers. You send in your current license, a completed form, and payment. Mail renewal takes longer — typically two to three weeks — but you never leave home. The DPS website has a tool that tells you whether you are may be able to access for online or mail renewal before you start the process.
If you do not meet the requirements for online or mail renewal, you must visit the Stephenville office in person. This is common if your license has been expired for a long time, if you have medical conditions listed on your license, or if you need to update your address or name.
What to expect when you arrive at the office
Arrive early, especially on Mondays or Fridays when the office is busier. Bring all required documents and your Social Security number. The office uses a ticket system — you will take a number when you arrive and wait for your turn. Wait times vary from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on the time of day and day of the week.
When your number is called, a staff member will review your documents, take your photo, and collect payment. If you are getting a new license or your first license, you will take a written test and vision test at the office. Bring your glasses or contacts if you use them for driving. The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs.
Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use to drive while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.
Fees and payment methods
Driver license fees in Texas vary by the type of transaction and how long the license is valid. A standard five-year renewal costs less than a new license. The Stephenville office accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card. Call the office to ask the exact fee for your situation, since rates can change and some discounts may explore.
If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, the fee is different from a renewal. If you are changing your name or address, there may be an additional fee. The staff at the Stephenville office can tell you the total cost before you complete your transaction.
If you cannot visit the Stephenville office
If the Stephenville office is closed or you cannot reach it, you can visit any other DPS Driver License office in Texas. The nearest offices to Stephenville are in De Leon, Dublin, and Comanche. You can also check the DPS website for a full list of offices and their hours.
If you live out of state but need to renew a Texas license, you can renew by mail or online if you meet the requirements. If you do not, you will need to visit a DPS office in Texas or contact DPS to discuss your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online if it is already expired?
No. Online renewal is only for licenses that are not yet expired. If your license is expired, you must renew in person at the Stephenville office or by mail. Mail renewal takes longer but does not require a visit.
How long does it take to get my new license after I visit the office?
Your plastic driver license card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You receive a temporary paper license at the office that is valid for driving when ready. Do not throw away the paper license until your plastic card arrives.
What if I fail the written test at the Stephenville office?
You can retake the test the same day or return another day to try again. There is usually a small fee for each retake. The staff will tell you how many attempts you have and what the fee is.
Do I need an appointment to visit the Stephenville DPS office?
Most DPS offices, including Stephenville, do not require appointments. You arrive, take a number, and wait. However, call ahead to confirm, as some offices have added appointment systems during busy times.
What if my documents are from another country?
If you are a non-citizen, you will need documents that prove your legal presence in the United States, such as a visa or work permit. Call the Stephenville office to ask which documents they accept, since requirements depend on your immigration status.